Did you know?

Based on a 2008 study involving 6 provinces, of the Canadians 65 and over who were living in the community:

almost 62% were using 5 or more classes of prescription drugs

21% were using 10 or more types of prescription drugs.

Canadian Institute for Health Information, 2010

A 2008 study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that 12% of patients who rushed to the emergency room at a Vancouver hospital were there because of adverse effects from medications, and were more likely to be admitted and stay in hospital longer than other patients.

How do medications affect older adults?

As we age, our bodies change:

Our liver, kidneys, and blood circulation work more slowly to get rid of drugs from our body.

We have a decreased ability to maintain normal blood pressure.

Our metabolic rate slows down.

We tend to have more chronic illnesses and take more medications.

When older adults use medications, all of the above factors can increase the chance of:

side effects

medication interactions

falling

Tips for safe use of medication

Knowledge is the best medicine. It is important to have a good understanding of any medication you are taking.